Silk Road Today -VICO Brings Silk Road Music to Global Soundscape Festival

Global Soundscapes Festival 2019 showcases musical genres celebrating the intersection of Canadian cultures with folk music from around the world.

Music is one of the most exchanged and surviving art form of the Silk Road. The living heritage that flourished and connected communities along the network of trade routes for thousands of years.

On May 31, Vancouver Inter-Cultural Orchestra (VICO) will open the 2019 Global Soundscapes Festival with a diverse selection of musical genres celebrating the intersection of Canadian cultures with folk music from around the world.

Free and ticketed performances will be held at various venues throughout British Columbia from May 31 to June 13.

The festival promises a stunning smorgasbord of sounds and rhythms with inspired connections across continents, cultures and centuries.  The musical genres range from traditional to cutting edge innovation.

Chrysanthemums & Maple Leaves

This year the spotlight is on the instruments and traditions of Japan with the theme: Chrysanthemums & Maple Leaves. 

Japan is a Maritime Silk Road destination.  In ancient times, goods along with music from Central Asia made their way to Japan on the Silk Road from China and Korea.

On the international guest list are Naomi Sato (sho), Harrie Starreveld (shakuhachi), Miyama Tokita-McQueen (koto), and Yuji Nakagawa (sarangi).

The artists will perform alongside renowned musicians, composers, and guest ensembles from BC’s vibrant contemporary classical and world music scenes.

Join them for some brilliant music without borders!

Festival Info